Garlic has long been celebrated as a spice and as a medicine. Its health benefits are numerous; some of which are summarized as follows:
Nutritional Value: Garlic is unarguably rich in many vitamins and minerals, this includes vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus among others.
Enhances body immunity: Garlic is said to fortify the body’s immunological system thus making it possible to overcome infections and diseases. It also works as an effective remedy in alleviating cold and flu symptoms due to its antimicrobial properties.
Heart Health Benefits: Consuming garlic has been associated with the reduction of cholesterols especially known as LDL (bad cholesterol) as well as lowering blood pressure and risks for diseases such as strokes or heart attacks.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Certain compounds present in garlic such as allicin are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects that can alleviate the inflammation within the body and as a result reduce chronic condition risks such as arthritis.
Antioxidants: With regard to garlic as a health supplement cancer and Alzheimer’s disease cannot be overlooked because concentrations of phytonutrients in garlic are known to have antioxidant properties that decrease the amount of free radicals which are considered toxic in the body thus inhibiting such diseases from taking root.
Detox: Garlic also aids in cleansing the body by detoxifying as well as possibly enhancing the functioning of the liver, which is very critical in detoxifying the body.
Enhances Digestion: This herb is regarded as helpful in the digestive process since it promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes while also being beneficial to the gastrointestinal system, thus causing less bloating and indigestion.
Antibacterial and Antiviral Properties: Garlic has also very strong antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal action which is effective in treating infections, such as ones that are caused by Salmonella and E. coli bacteria.
Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels: Some studies indicate that garlic may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, thus benefiting individuals suffering from diabetes and those who are likely to develop it.
Promotion of Healthy Bones: Garlic is rich in calcium and can be useful in promoting bone health by raising the level of estrogen hormone in women, thus helping to prevent osteoporosis.
Eating more garlic is quite easy and convenient whether its through cooking meals with garlic, taking garlic tablets, or eating fresh garlic for stronger effects. However, moderation intake is important since excessive amounts can lead to stomach upset and may also react unfavorably to some drugs.
